Willie Rogers, Jr., 72, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away at Foundation Park Nursing Home, Toledo, Ohio, on April 16, 2012, after a peaceful battle with his health.

He was born on August 21, 1939, in Dumas, Arkansas, to Willie and Leola Rogers, Sr. He was united in marriage to laFran Franklin in 1962, and to this union, two children were born, Bryant, Sr., and Tonya Rogers.

Willie was baptized at an early age at 16 Section Missionary Baptist Church in Arkansas. He attended Selma Elementary School and Drew High School in Arkansas. He was an avid basketball and softball player. He was employed as a Machine Operator Specialist at GM Powertrain, Toledo, Ohio, for 32 1/2 years. He also was a member of Local 14 UAW and a board member of the Mutual Federal Credit Union. He coached boys basketball at St. Teresa School in Toledo, Ohio. He was a dedicated Scott Booster for over 30 years.

He enjoyed the visits he received from his family and especially his grandchildren while he was a resident at Foundation Park Nursing Home. His daughter Tonya was not only his child, but his right hand.

Willie was preceded in death by his wife of 12 years, LaFran; parents, Willie and Leola Rogers, Jr.; sisters, Ida Mae Everett and Gertrude Rogers; brother, Andrew Finnie; and grandson, Antonio Rogers.

He leaves to cherish his memories, sons, Bryant Rogers, Sr. and Marvin (Jashelyn) Harris, both of Toledo; daughter Tonya (Keith Moore-fianc'e)Rogers of Toledo, OH; grandchildren, Bryant Jr, Brandon, Breya, Bradley, Brianna Rogers, Jazlyn Purnell, Yahsua, Leyah, Sarah and Sinaiyah Harris all of Toledo, OH; great grandchildren, Anasia Guinn, Joseph Smith and Bryant Rogers, III all of Toledo, OH; brothers, James Smith (Birdie) Rogers of Little Rock, AR and Nathaniel Rogers of Toledo, OH; sisters, Lillie Lee Kemp of Atlanta, GA, Nellie Jane Hunt of San Bernardino, CA, Earslean Freeman of Toledo,OH; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Funeral services are Monday, April 23, 2012, 11:00 a.m., preceded by a 10:00 a.m. Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 22, 2012, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at The House of Day Funeral Service.